Historically Black University Accused of Racism

Benedict College in South Carolina, one of the Historically Black Universities, has been accused of racism by three former Caucasian professors. They claim race was the reason they were either let go or didn’t receive promotions. A settlement has been reached between the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and Benedict – each teacher would receive $55,000 and the school will remind its staff about its non-discrimination policy.

The allegations include a 2004 report that art instructor Argiri Aggelopoulou applied for the position of art history professor, but that instead went to a black professor; and a 2008 report in which contracts were not renewed for Aggelopoulou, art professor Michael Hale and associate English professor Katherine Mille.

Benedict’s attorney, Carol Ervin, denies the allegations, writing “Aggelopoulou was rejected because she was not qualified for the professor job, and her contract wasn’t renewed because she was only hired for a one-year position.”

“The College further responds that it embraces diversity and opposes discrimination,” Ervin continued in a written statement. “Benedict College is an equal opportunity educational institution. We seek geographic, international, and racial diversity in our student body.”